Meg Campion

This May I’m walking 7,000 steps a day for Myles and Mac — and for every autistic child and family who deserves understanding, support and opportunity.

This May I'm walking for two very special reasons — Myles and Mac.

I'm taking part in Walk for Autism to support autistic Australians and their families, and to raise awareness for two incredible boys who inspire us every single day.

Myles (now 7) was diagnosed with Level 2 Autism at age 5, and more recently with Auditory Processing Disorder as well. His little brother Mac (now 4) was diagnosed with Level 3 Autism and ADHD at just 3 years old.

Like many families, their journey with autism has come with both incredible highs and very real challenges. There have been moments of exhaustion, frustration and uncertainty — but also moments of enormous pride as we watch them grow, learn and show the world just how brilliant they are in their own way.

Both boys attend Speech and Occupational Therapy through the NDIS, and we’re incredibly grateful they were accepted into the Early Intervention Program, because the progress they’ve made over the past year has been amazing.

They’ve also been supported by wonderful educators at their school and early learning centre, who help create environments where they feel understood, supported and able to thrive.

This May our team will be walking 7,000 steps a day to raise funds for Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) so more autistic children and their families can access the support they need earlier.

Because the world isn’t always autism-friendly, 70% of Autistic people in Australia experience mental health challenges. Organisations like Aspect help change that by supporting families, providing autism-specific education, funding research and helping create more inclusive communities.

If you’d like to support us, there are a few ways you can help:

• Donate — even $10 or $20 helps support autism services, research and families who need it

• Join our team and walk alongside us this May

• Share our page to help spread awareness

Every step we take helps create a more understanding and inclusive world for autistic kids like the Budgen boys.

Thank you for walking with us and supporting Myles, Mac, and so many other autistic children and families. 💙